Tercero Costes Euljiro: A Mediterranean Escape Featuring 5-Star Hotel Craftsmanship and Sizzling Paella
“”In the labyrinth of Euljiro’s industrial alleys, where the scent of metal meets the spirit of youth, there is a red brick building that holds a secret doorway to Spain.””
Welcome to Tercero Costes (떼르세로 코스테스). This isn’t just another trendy spot; it’s a labor of love run by a chef from Australia’s prestigious TAFE culinary school with 5-star hotel experience, alongside his wife who shares a profound passion for Spanish culture. The name “Tercero” (meaning third) marks their third successful venture, and you can feel that seasoned expertise the moment you cross the threshold. If you’re looking for a “vibe” that transports you straight to a sun-drenched terrace in Valencia, this is your mandatory stop in Seoul.
Location
- –Google Maps: 2F, 30 Mareunnae-ro 2-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
- –Taxi (Korean): 서울특별시 중구 마른내로2길 30 2층 떼르세로 코스테스
Show this to the Taxi Driver or Locals
이 화면을 택시 기사님이나 한국인에게 보여주세요.
Hours
| Day / Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Daily | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Break Time | Mon-Fri 15:00-17:00 / Sat-Sun 15:00-16:30 |
| Last Order | 9:00 PM |
The Ambience: Mediterranean Sunshine in “Hip-jiro”
Even on a Sunday afternoon, the energy here is electric. The interior is a masterful blend of vintage textures, warm terracotta lighting, and lush greenery that instantly soothes the soul. The sunlight streaming through the windows creates an airy, relaxed atmosphere that the locals call “neujoh” (perfect vibes).
A rustic, sun-filled sanctuary that captures the effortless elegance of a European terrace.
The open kitchen adds a dynamic rhythmic layer to the meal, where you can hear the sizzle of the pans and see the steam rising from the saffron-infused rice. Whether it’s an intimate date, a celebratory “Cheong-mo” (wedding invitation gathering), or a lively team dinner, the space adapts beautifully with its versatile seating and heartwarming Mediterranean charm.
Taste Notes: A Symphony of Spanish Soul and Korean Fusion
“”The Paella isn’t just cooked; it’s nurtured over the flame until the bottom becomes a crispy, umami-packed treasure known as ‘Socarrat’.””
The Signature Seafood Paella
Oh man, the Seafood Paella is a visual and sensory explosion! It arrives on a wide, sizzling pan, glistening with a rich tomato base and topped with a bounty of succulent shrimp and fresh shellfish. The rice grains are perfectly al dente, having absorbed every drop of the savory seafood stock.
The pro move here? Let it sit on the portable gas burner for an extra minute. As the bottom toasts, it creates that legendary crispy layer that provides an incredible texture contrast to the plump seafood. It’s a deep, concentrated dive into the ocean’s umami, balanced with just the right touch of Spanish spices.
Gosari (Fern) Oil Pasta & Seasonal Sea Berry Aide
For something truly unique, the Gosari Oil Pasta is a must-try. This vegan-friendly masterpiece takes traditional Korean bracken (Gosari) and stir-fries it with spicy Cheongyang chilies and garlic scapes. The result? An earthy, nutty depth that dances with a sharp, spicy kick. It’s a brilliant fusion that highlights the chef’s creative pedigree.
To wash it all down, the Sea Berry (Borisu) Aide is a revelation. Made with fruits hand-grown by the owners, it tastes like a sophisticated mix of passionfruit but with a cleaner, more ‘botanical’ finish. It’s the ultimate palate cleanser that keeps your taste buds jumping for the next bite!
Price Range
- –Range: Moderate (5-Star Hotel Quality at Euljiro Prices!)
- –You are getting a masterclass in Mediterranean cuisine from a TAFE-trained, 5-star hotel chef. When you consider the sheer quality of the fresh seafood and the artisanal touch in every dish, the value here is absolutely phenomenal.
- –Experiencing this level of authentic Spanish craftsmanship in a beautiful, sun-drenched space without paying fine-dining hotel prices is a massive win for your wallet and your taste buds.
Ordering & Tips
- –The Socarrat Secret: When your Paella arrives, let it sit on the burner for just a little longer. That crispy, caramelized layer of rice at the bottom (the Socarrat) is the ultimate umami flavor bomb. Do not leave a single grain behind!
- –Vegan-Friendly Brilliance: The Gosari (Fern) Oil Pasta is a stroke of fusion genius. Even if you are not vegan, the earthy, spicy depth of this Korean-European hybrid dish is an absolute must-order.
- –Drink Local: Skip the standard sodas and order the Seasonal Sea Berry Aide. The house-grown fruits provide a botanical, palate-cleansing freshness that cuts right through the rich olive oil.
- –Navigation Tip: Euljiro’s alleys can be a maze. Look carefully for the red brick building adorned with Mediterranean ornaments to find the secret doorway to the second floor.
Who I Recommend It For
- –Date Night Planners: The sun-drenched, rustic European aesthetic makes this one of the most romantic and visually stunning spots in the ‘Hip-jiro’ district.
- –Paella Purists: If you have been searching Seoul for authentic, uncompromising Spanish paella that utilizes proper techniques and fresh stock, your search ends here.
- –Vegetarians & Vegans: With options like the Gosari pasta, you can enjoy a massive, deeply flavorful meal without compromising your dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
Tercero Costes is a testament to what happens when hotel-grade technique meets a genuine love for Spain. It’s a place that respects the ingredients enough to let them speak, offering a “Texture Explosion” that is both comforting and adventurous. If you find yourself in Euljiro and crave a meal that provides a burst of Mediterranean positive energy, this is your destination. One spoonful of that crispy paella, and you’ll be ready to take on the world!
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